GILLINGHAM manager Andy Hessenthaler is ready to open immediate talks with defender Chris Hope about a new contract in an effort to secure his long-term future at Priestfield.

Hessenthaler had the best possible news on his return from holiday last week when he learned his top centre-back was ready to stay at the club.

Hope, an ever-present for the past two seasons, had been ready to quit the club after being fined and disciplined for attending the Gills Independent Supporters' Club Player of the Year function in April.

Hessenthaler said: "Chris has been outstanding since he's been at the football club. He's a great professional who has been first class. I gather something went in the paper while I was away and though I haven't spoken to Chris yet I'm sure that come pre-season he will be here ready to train.

"Let's hope we can sort out his contract so he can be a Gillingham player for the next few years."

The Gills boss has welcomed the news that all Nationwide League clubs will be able to sign up to eight players on loan next season but no more than four at any time. Loans will be split into two categories - short and long-term.

Short-term loans will be for a period of no more than 28 days and long-term loans for no more than 93 days. These must be from between July 1 and December 31. The decision was taken at Saturday's league annual meeting in London.